Research – Ewaso Lions

Using Technology in Lion Conservation

Ewaso Lions has helped to grow and maintain a stable lion population within our conservation landscape since our work began in 2007; however, lions worldwide and in Kenya face a significant decline. In the last two decades, their numbers have plummeted by 43%, leaving only about 20,000 remaining. In Kenya, where lions are culturally and ecologically vital, approximately 2,500 lions persist across protected and communal lands. This decline stems from habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, prey depletion, among other issues. With lion habitat shrinking by 90%, human-lion encounters increase, necessitating ongoing monitoring for informed conservation measures.

Fortunately, technology has emerged as a powerful tool in lion conservation efforts. Telemetry tracking, camera trapping, remote sensing, and the Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool (SMART) have revolutionised the way we monitor and protect lion populations.

At Ewaso Lions, we utilise GPS-enabled collars and the SMART platform to monitor lion movements and mitigate potential human-lion conflicts. SMART provides essential analysis tools for collecting and analysing data. Through SMART, we gather valuable data on patrol efforts, conflict incidents, and lion sightings, enabling us to identify areas requiring additional conservation efforts and create conflict and habitat preference maps.

Naramat with her collar in 2020

We have customised the SMART app to include icons and pictures for our team of Warriors and Lion Governors, making data collection more accessible and efficient. In 2023 alone, we conducted 277 patrols, covering approximately 4,138 km, and identified new critical lion corridors and habitat preferences, enhancing our understanding of lion ecology in the region.

Jeremiah, Letupukwa and Lebasha out tracking lions (c) Alfred Simatwa

Patrol data collected on smart phone (c) Alfred Simatwa

Patrol efforts and wildlife observations in 2023

Moving forward, our goal is to expand our coverage, increasing both distance and awareness of critical lion habitat areas, while striving to mitigate lion-human conflicts. With technology as our ally, we are committed to protecting Kenya’s precious lion populations for generations.

In March 2024, Google published an article on how we use Google Earth to protect lions. Click here to read the article.

Matthew and Toby analyse downloaded lion tracks

Invasive Species: Challenge or Opportunity?

The encroachment of the highly invasive Prosopis julifora, known locally as Mathenge, into our lion territories presents a complex dilemma. Witnessing its rapid proliferation in key lion areas raises significant concerns, given its notorious ability to outcompete indigenous vegetation and transform landscapes into dense, impenetrable thickets. However, amidst these challenges lie unexpected opportunities.

The vast invasive species forests

Mathenge’s swift growth has inadvertently created havens for lions, providing them with secure refuges for raising cubs and seeking shelter from threats. Yet, this comes at a cost – the displacement of vital indigenous cover and the erosion of critical wildlife habitat. In particular, the gradual disappearance of the indigenous toothbrush tree, a cornerstone of lion habitat, underscores the urgency of addressing the invasive species issue.

Kwenia and Narasha walk in front of the “Mathenge” forests

While the vast Mathenge forests seem daunting to tackle, we recognise the imperative to restore lion habitats by reclaiming territory from invasive species. Our efforts, led by Mama Simba through their lion habitat recovery initiative, involves strategic removal of smaller Mathenge bushes and experimenting with the cultivation of toothbrush trees, albeit with the acknowledgment that this process may span years.

Mama Simba ladies remove “Mathenge” (c) Anthony Ochieng

It is clear that Mathenge offers only a transient solution to lion conservation, underscoring the necessity of long-term strategies centered on restoring landscapes with indigenous flora and managing invasive species effectively. By prioritising the preservation of lion habitats and promoting continued harmony between wildlife and communities, we can navigate this intricate landscape towards a sustainable future for both lions and ecosystems alike.

*This work is being done in collaboration with other partners.

Naramat’s Pride: A Thriving Legacy

Naramat, our extraordinary lioness in Westgate Conservancy, was sadly killed by other lions in 2021, but her impact lives on. She gave birth to 3 stunning females in 2019 – Mararoi, Narasha, and Masanduku, who later brought 3 more cubs into the world in 2021. Fast forward to 2023, Narasha gave birth to 3 adorable cubs – and we recently had the privilege of seeing them. Now 6 months old, Naramat’s newest grandcubs were spotted in the thick toothbrush tree bushes with their mother Narasha and all four lions seem to be thriving.

Naramat’s grand-cubs: Narasha’s latest trio of cubs born in 2023

The 3 sub-adults born to Mararoi and Narasha in 2021

Mararoi, Masanduku and Narasha – born in 2019

Naramat, an extraordinary lioness

Naramat was beloved and embraced by many in the Westgate community throughout her 13 years and was a testament to peaceful co-existence between lions and humans. To read more about Naramat, click here. Naramat’s legacy continues to inspire and awe us every day and we look forward to continuing watching her grand-cubs grow and thrive within our conservation landscape.

RESILIENCE AND COURAGE: NANAI’S JOURNEY OF RECOVERY

RESILIENCE AND COURAGE: NANAI’S JOURNEY OF RECOVERY

DISCLAIMER: GRAPHIC IMAGES

Nanai is a very well-known lioness that we have known since she was born almost 14 years ago. We have watched her grow up in Samburu and be the most efficient hunter and mother that she is. Nanai has given birth to so many cubs – who are often seen in Samburu. She occasionally moves to Buffalo Springs and can often be seen along the Ewaso Nyiro River. She is truly an icon of northern Kenya.

For a number of months, we have closely monitored Nanai after noticing a growth below her mouth. Late last year, we became concerned that it was growing and was affecting her hunting and feeding ability. With 3 cubs depending on her, we were greatly concerned.

Nanai on the 26^th of December 2022

Nanai on 4^th January 2023

We worked quickly with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and Samburu National Reserve (SNR) to bring in Dr. Mutinda (Lewa Wildlife Conservancy & KWS) and Dr. Oundo (North Kenya Veterinary Services) to help Nanai through this difficult and complex situation.

On the 16^th of January, Dr. Mutinda and Dr. Oundo quickly arrived to assess Nanai. After the assessment using a portable X-ray machine, they identified a fracture in Nanai’s jaw, and a decision was made to surgically remove the mass from her mouth. Her surgery occurred on the 18^th of January and we collared her for close monitoring. Despite sleepless nights and very long days, our team remained hopeful that Nanai would recover. Jeneria and his team have closely watched over Nanai documenting every step of her journey to recovery.

We are thrilled that Nanai’s mouth looks much better following her surgery. We had a great sighting of her and her cubs as they sat along the Ewaso Nyiro River and eventually even chased some impalas. She has also hunted warthogs a few times with her cubs. This is a true story of resilience and courage.

Nanai’s Surgery on 18^th January 2023

Nanai on 23^rd January 2023

Nanai on 26^th January 2023

Nanai and her cubs on 11^th February 2023

April 2023 Update on Nanai

Nanai continues to hunt successfully even during the rains when it becomes more challenging for lions. She is still with her cubs who are growing quickly and will be named soon!

We are so grateful for the extraordinary effort from Dr. Mutinda and Dr. Oundo, Dr. Kurere and Solomon Lenasalia (Kura’s Pride & Vetinwild), Samburu rangers and their leadership through Tom Lesarge and Moses Lolmodooni who have all been outstanding, Samburu KWS Warden and the KWS Veterinary Unit team, and all tour guides who reported her sightings frequently.

We thank all our friends and supporters for ensuring that our work goes on, and our mission is fulfilled. Together we have given Nanai and her cubs the very best chance of survival.

A week in the life of Jeneria

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”7030″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Naramat was in trouble. She had wandered into an area in Westgate which would put her on a collision course with some of the camels there. Having heard this grave news, Jeneria’s week began by racing there to keep the lioness and the community’s camels safe. Mission accomplished, Jeneria had no time to rest as the very next day – Monday – Nadala killed two cows north of Samburu, and Loeku’s GPS points put him ominously close to the town. Jeneria went with some Warrior Watch men to deal with both of these issues, negotiating for Nadala’s life and keeping a close eye on Loeku’s movements.

Switching it up, Jeneria now had to put on his workshop hat. On Tuesday, he headed to pick up conservancy managers from three different areas for a training. When they were done, the fun reached a crescendo when Jeneria found himself in the midst of a spectacularly colourful Turkana wedding in Ngare Mara, surrounded by 200 feathered Turkana warriors. A rare occasion for Samburus and Turkanas to mix, Jeneria was asked to speak, further bridging peace to the two communities at the celebration.

As the excitement died down, Jeneria’s thoughts veered back to Loeku, and he went straight back to check that he was in a safe area.

Having dropped everyone back to far flung homes, Jeneria went to a meeting with the women of Westgate. Looking out at these pioneering women, he passionately gave them advice and showing all the men’s support for women to have a stronger voice in conservation.

On Saturday, serious matters were afoot, and Jeneria went to participate in the Annual General Meeting of a key conservancy: Kalama, keeping lions on the agenda there.

Time for a break? Well, maybe Sunday brought a break of sorts. Jeneria joined Munteli, our Mama Simba coordinator as she took Westgate Mamas out for a wildlife safari. With the rain and the lush bush, there was lots to see and lots to celebrate as Munteli drove everyone through the windy paths.

Jeneria’s breakneck speed, passion and efficiency inspires us all every day, and is helping to build up the next generation of those who want to be just like him. We salute him, and the world salutes him too. This frantic week also brought with it a coveted prize. Jeneria is among 50 wildlife rangers across the continent to receive the African Ranger Award from the Paradise Foundation. He is being honoured for his courage, bravery and efforts in securing a future for wildlife, and we couldn’t be more proud.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Lions Move Through a Challenging Landscape

Loeku comes close to Isiolo town

Since the arrival of the 4 new males in April, we have seen a marked change in the movement patterns of Loeku and Lguret.

Fortunately, Loeku – the four-year old son of Nashipai – was collared in February and, as a result, we have been able to closely monitor his movements through daily collar downloads. This data showed how Loeku moved out of Buffalo Springs, where he had been resident for a while, and headed south to Isiolo town. Unfortunately, he then became stuck inside a farm and was forced to move back towards Buffalo Springs and the community conservancies south of here. Eventually, Loeku moved around the big hills and headed to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. However, his time here was also short-lived; after just 48 hours he headed straight back towards Westgate Conservancy.This is the first time that we have been able to accurately document this vital corridor connecting Lewa to the north.

Whilst in Westgate, Loeku united with Lguret (who was captured on our camera trap a few times!) and both males have remained together since then. The two males have been staying very close to the Ewaso Nyiro River, hiding in thick Salvadora (toothbrush tree) bushes inside the Core Conservation Area.

The next few months will be critical for these males. We are especially keen to see how 4-year old Loeku tries to find a new home with females, and how 11-year old Lguret will survive in this challenging landscape, surrounded by people and with a limited food source.

The collaring work is part of a study looking at dispersal in young male lions, and is being done in partnership with Lion Landscapes.

Shivani Receives PhD From University of Oxford

We are very excited to announce that Founder & Executive Director of Ewaso Lions, Shivani Bhalla, received her PhD from the University of Oxford in July.

“This has been a long journey and I am very relieved to have finally completed my PhD (known as a DPhil at Oxford). This was only possible thanks to the enormous support I received from my family, friends and the Ewaso Lions team who gave me so much strength, space and time to finally wrap it up. My thesis focuses on lions in community areas and what they need in order to survive with people. The findings of my thesis have already helped lions in Samburu and will continue to do so. I dedicated it to Jeremy Lucas, who passed away a year ago and loved Samburu, its lions and people so much, and supported me immensely throughout the process.

I was thrilled to graduate in Oxford in July, with my family and Jeneria who represented the entire team. Thank you to everyone who supported me along the way. It is now finally official!”

Shivani graduates at Oxford in July

Chalisa Moves to Lewa

We are thrilled to report that a young male lion who we last saw in Buffalo Springs National Reserve in November 2013, has been sighted in Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. The Lewa lion research team led by Mary Mwololo alerted us that a new male had appeared in Lewa in January and sent us photos. We looked through our lion database and through whisker spot identification, we confirmed that the male in Lewa was indeed Chalisa – the Buffalo Springs male.

Chalisa in Lewa in 2017 (Photo by Lewa)

Since he was found in Lewa, Chalisa has been collared as part of a wider dispersal study (with Lion Landscapes) across the landscape. We are keeping a close eye on him and grateful to work with our partners in Lewa, Lion Landscapes, and the local communities, to ensure continued movement of lions through this landscape.

Our Rangers Capture Data on Lions and Livestock

Every day, our Ewaso Lions rangers put on their uniforms and head into the bush on patrol. The three rangers bring an important research element to our conservation work. By collecting baseline data and monitoring long term lion and wildlife population trends, we can measure the progress of our work and design new activities that ultimately promote lion conservation.

Rangers are trained on all aspects of wildlife conservation including conflict mitigation, carnivore ecology, the importance of carnivores, GPS tracking and more. Rangers monitor lion and wildlife movement, gather data on abundance and distribution, and serve as wildlife ambassadors by spreading the conservation message to their communities.

Meet the rangers
The Ewaso Lions rangers team consists of Francis Lendorop, Jeremiah Letoole, and Jackson Lenakae. All rangers reside in Westgate Conservancy in northern Kenya and have worked with Ewaso Lions since 2008. They have completed training at the Kenya Wildlife Service Manyani Field Training Centre to help with their field responsibilities and attend numerous trainings conducted by the Conservancy Warden of Westgate on security, radio protocol, and more.

On Foot With Lions

The rangers, on a monthly basis, conduct a total of 24 fixed transects (each 3 km long) distributed across Westgate Community Conservancy (400 km2). Along the transects, they record numbers/sightings of lions and other carnivores, ungulates, and livestock. From 2011 to 2014, the rangers surveyed the transects for a total of 2,750 days, with each spending an average of 172 days per year doing the transects. This is a huge effort in terms of monitoring carnivore and prey abundance and movement, and hugely complementary to the efforts of Westgate Conservancy.

Apart from the transect surveys, the rangers also do patrols within Westgate Community Conservancy on the days they are not conducting the transects. During patrols they record sightings of lions and other carnivores, livestock, and also incidences of human-wildlife conflict.

These data, altogether, help in estimating and monitoring wildlife and livestock abundance and also in measuring the health of the ecosystem.

Rising Livestock
Toby Otieno, Ewaso Lions Research Manager, recently analysed data collected by rangers from 2011 to 2014. We recorded a decline in both carnivore density and herbivore density in Westgate Conservancy from 2012 to 2014. Interestingly, as livestock numbers increased sharply between 2013 and 2014, we saw a decline in carnivores and herbivores at the same time. We will continue to explore the relationship between livestock and wildlife as we continue our ranger data collection and analysis.

Going Forward
The analysis revealed areas where our data collection can improve to increase accuracy and coverage. Looking ahead, we plan to digitize our rangers data collection and patrols through the use of a smartphone data collection app called CyberTracker and the data management app called SMART. These are tools that are designed for recording rangers and scouts’ patrols and data collection; including patrol efforts, wildlife sightings, conflict data and almost any other kind of ecological data.

Exploring New Areas for Lion Connectivity

Lions and other large carnivores are wide-ranging species, which means protected areas are often too small to maintain viable populations. Successful conservation of these species, and their prey, instead requires a landscape scale approach.

Therefore, as we are busy working on our strategic plan for the next three years, one important question we must address is: Which areas should we target to ensure lions can survive and move safely between community areas where they are able to find safe refuges?

To answer this question we need to think beyond the boundaries of our current study areas; we need to explore the surrounding landscape for ourselves and talk to the communities and stakeholders who live and work there.

This month, our team visited Namunyak Conservancy on what will be the first of several reconnaissance trips. Namunyak Conservancy, which encompasses the Matthew’s mountain range, borders Westgate to the north.

Whilst the sheer scale of Namunyak was somewhat daunting – you could fit 9 Westgate’s into Namunyak and still have space to spare – it was very exciting to see a lot of potential habitat for lions.

Namunyak, which means “blessed” in the local Samburu language, features mountainous terrain, indigenous forest, and permanent water sources – a contrast to Westgate’s vast expanses of thorny scrubland and occasional rocky outcrop. At times, it was hard to believe we were still in Samburu.

Whilst in some parts of Namunyak prey species seemed sparse, other regions were teeming with wildlife. For example, in the Sarara valley we saw had an incredible sighting of close to 60 reticulated giraffe and also learnt that buffalo and elephant are frequent visitors to Kitich Camp (as well as being potential food for the resident lions!).

As we travelled through the Conservancy, we stopped off at the Conservancy Headquarters and several ranger outposts to learn more about lion presence and movements within Namunyak from those who know the area best.

Together with additional research, this type of information is invaluable for identifying priority areas that are key to lion persistence, and maintaining connectivity between them.

Three days and 500 or so kilometres later and we still have a whole chunk of Namunyak left to explore – not to mention the other Conservancies we plan to visit over coming months. The next step will involve conducting participatory mapping excerises and surveys to pin point the priority areas. Then, once we have identified the priority areas for lions across the region, we hope to implement our successful community-based programmes to promote coexistence between people and wildlife.

Securing these regions will be critical to maintaining connectivity and genetic resilience of northern Kenya’s lions.

1 2 3